Puebla, Everything You Need to Know

Puebla is the fourth largest city of Mexico with a population of 1.5 million people. The city is known for the many students coming from all over Mexico and the world to study at one of the prestigious universities, such as BUAP, UDLAP and Tec de Monterrey. There is enough to experience since it’s close to Mexico City and from the mayor cities it’s closest to the coast. The city center of Puebla is so beautiful that is has been recognized by UNESCO and declared as a World Heritage Center. Definitely an amazing city to spend your time as an international student.

The city Puebla

Puebla is located in a valley surrounded by mountains and volcanoes on four sides. This creates a beautiful view of the snow-topped peaks only 40 kilometers away. When you are in Puebla you get to experience the subtropical highland climate with an average day temperature around 24 degrees Celsius. Since the city is located at a high altitude it will never get extremely hot, but definitely bring your sunscreen.

The culture of Puebla

The culture of Puebla is seen as a combination of the Spanish and the vestiges of ancient cultures. This is due to Christopher Columbus who is said to have discovered America back in 1498. Just like any other city in Mexico, music, dance, cuisine, architecture and sports very important. On your first day in Puebla you are likely to be taken to the nearest reggaeton bar to show of your dance moves. One of the most important things in the life of a Mexican is its family, which are normally quite large and Mexicans really have to respect their responsibilities as a family member. Every year on the 5th of May, Puebla celebrates its defeat of the invading French troops in the 19th century. This means a party, and a big party. It’s celebrated with concerts, activities and a very large parade. This is where you will experience the true culture of Puebla! For you as an international student in Puebla there are things you should try to avoid to not be seen as a tourist.

• Do not wear sandals or flip-flops. Puebla is not Cancun.
• Do not have dinner before 9 pm
• Do not get angry if they use the honk of the car
• Do not drink the tap water

Traveling in Puebla

Mexico is a beautiful country and Puebla is no different. After a long week of studying or working at your internship company you definitely deserve to take a long weekend off and explore the beautiful city. One of the volcanoes in Puebla is accessible from the outside and the inside. If you feel adventurous then this is the way to go. Other incredible sights to visit are the Cathedral, Historical Downtown, The Parian, The Street of Sweets and many more. The historical colorful houses can be found at the beautiful streets near Sapos Square. This is full of colonials houses full of balconies, gates and facades where you can find shops, restaurants and bars.

Cost of living in Puebla

The cost of living in Puebla is on average cheaper than most countries in Europe.

Food: Basic lunch menu with a drink 4.61 EUR Big Mac Meal 4.62 EUR Basic dinner for two 16 EUR

Housing: Single student room 200-400 EUR Internet 8Mbps 19 EUR

Clothing: 1 pair of jeans 34 EUR 1 pair of sports shoes 70 EUR

Transportation: 1 liter of gas 0.73 EUR Monthly ticket public transport 18 EUR 8km taxi trip 7 EUR

Entertainment: 2 tickets to the movies 7 EUR 1 beer in neighborhood pub 1.67 EUR